I love Home Hill.

I’ve lived here for the last, what… 10 months now? And can wholeheartedly say that I’ve not regretted a single second.

But what I’ve come to realise is that, according to most locals, it’s a shell of what it once was—and the signs were staring me right in the face the whole time.

The boarded-up shops are perhaps most telling. Everyone I talk to says that where these barren shopfronts on Main Street now lie, businesses used to bustle. Streets full. Lines out the door.

Then, naturally, I ask them, “What happened?”

That’s where answers begin to diverge, and breed more questions.

Does this business drop-off correlate with the issues pertaining to volunteering that I discussed last week? Or do they merely coincide? Can community spirit thrive in any meaningful sense if the local business sphere is compromised?

I think they go hand in hand. As good as Home Hill is in its current form, country towns need economies to sustain themselves both financially and socially.

But what do I know? I’m no local.

So, as I embark on this quest to uncover the why—and potential antidotes—please do get in touch with any helpful information or observations.

And on that note, if you have any story you think deserves to be told in our paper, please do not hesitate to contact us.

‍

By Jacob Casha

Trevor Elton has lived his whole life in Home Hill.

Born and raised, true blue.

That’s why, when he caught wind that the town’s beloved community sports club was on the brink of demise at the turn of the decade, he knew he had to step in.

And that, he did.

Faced with dwindling numbers, unpaid rates, and the looming threat of closure, the Home Hill Community Sports Club had been one of the big losers when COVID struck in 2019.

The stream of travellers had run dry, membership had fallen to single digits, budgets were evaporating, and the greens of the near-century-old venue were in complete disrepair, often doubling as a makeshift soccer pitch.

“The club was pretty much on its knees,” said Trevor.

But he never remembered it that way.

For decades, the club had been the steady lifeblood of the community; a haven for locals from all corners to connect and unwind, and often the venue of everyone’s special occasions.

When Trevor took on the role of club president five years ago, he vowed it would see these days again, not only for the sake of its members, but the community as a whole.

“It was never about any kind of personal applause,” he said.

“It was about keeping alive something that means so much.”

The road to revival began with the club bus.

Costly to maintain and no longer viable, it was sold, freeing up much-needed financial wiggle room and giving the struggling club its first real breath of life in years. From there, the snowball began to pick up momentum.

With the proceeds, Trevor moved quickly to clear outstanding debts and steady the club’s finances, laying the foundation for a broader revival.

From that foundation, he spearheaded working bees to restore the grounds, applied for and secured a $200,000 grant to rebuild the green, and transformed the hall with new carpet, air-conditioning, and aesthetic upgrades that gave the club a new lease on life.

With that, members began to pour back in, with numbers soon eclipsing triple digits. The club grew stronger by the day, and the venue once again began to reflect its local stature as a storied pillar of the community.

And even as the club continues to surpass anything it had ever been before, Trevor refuses to rest. His current pursuit? A brand new cover for the greens, which he admits is a mammoth task, but given his history, more a matter of when rather than if.

His exploits saw him awarded Volunteer of the Year at this year’s Australia Day Awards at the Burdekin Memorial Hall; an award he said was a bonus rather than the end goal. Characteristically, he was quick to acknowledge the role of the team behind him, giving special credit to wife Judy.

“It was a proud moment—for myself and for my wife, who’s always backing me up and being there with me. It’s just as much hers as it is mine,” he said.

“These clubs rely on volunteer work, and I'm only just part of the club The award I got wasn’t my award—it was everybody's award, and if you look around the Burdekin, there are so many other people out there who deserve it.”

When Trevor took on the role of club president five years ago, he vowed it would see its glory days again, not only for the sake of its members, but the community as a whole. Photo credit: Jacob Casha

‍

The Forensic Crash Unit is appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage following a fatal traffic crash in Ayr on Tuesday, 3 February.

Investigations indicate that around 3.05pm, an orange Yamaha motorcycle was travelling along Rutherford Street when it collided with the rear of a Kia Sorrento that was turning into a driveway.

The rider of the motorcycle, a 40-year-old man, was transported to Townsville University Hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The male rider has since died from his injuries.

The 35-year-old female driver of the Kia Sorrento was not physically injured.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has relevant dashcam footage is urged to contact police.
Investigations are ongoing.

Quote this reference number: QP2600221205

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24 hours per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au

‍

The Forensic Crash Unit is appealing for witnesses or anyone with relevant dashcam footage following a fatal traffic crash in Ayr on Tuesday, 3 February. Photo source: QPS

‍

Ayr State School teacher Shanoa Young has been nationally recognised for her teaching excellence this month, pipping thousands of contenders to Twinkl’s inaugural Aussie Teacher Legend award.

Part of Twinkl’s Aussie Teachers Gratitude Awards, the accolade honours teachers who ‘go above and beyond’ each day, with 10 of the nation’s most-loved educators celebrated as winners.

Young, one of the 10 winners, said her emotional reaction was equal parts pride and surprise.

"When my name was announced, I was honestly shocked,” said Young.

“I didn’t even know… I had been nominated. I felt overwhelmed, excited, and genuinely so honoured that I had even been considered, let alone selected.”

The award carried a deeper meaning for Young, who had been juggling full-time work, studying, and raising a family before the victory.

“This recognition feels like the icing on the cake—a reminder that the effort, dedication, and long hours have been seen and valued. It’s very affirming both personally and professionally,” she said.

A teacher at Ayr State School since June 2025, Young credits her students and colleagues for much of her success.

“The support from parents, students, and colleagues has been absolutely essential. Teaching is never a solo effort—it’s a team journey,” said Young.

"I love how unique and diverse my students are, and I truly believe I learn just as much from them as they learn from me.”

Principal Mrs Nikki Schell said the award was a deeply deserved recognition of an educator who leads with heart, purpose and authenticity.

“She is the kind of teacher who makes students feel seen, valued and safe—someone who shows up every day with kindness, humour and an unwavering belief in her students,” said Mrs Schell.

“We are incredibly proud of the impact she has already made at Ayr State School, and this recognition is a wonderful celebration of the care and passion she brings to our school community.”

‍

Ayr State School teacher Shanoa Young has been nationally recognised for her teaching excellence this month, pipping thousands of contenders to Twinkl’s inaugural Aussie Teacher Legend award. Photo supplied

‍

It was when Janet Hughes began caring for dementia patients decades ago—while her own mother was also affected—that she experienced firsthand the toll the disease takes, not just on those living with it, but on their carers as well.

Since then, she has dedicated herself to ensuring carers receive the support they need.

Drawing on decades of experience in dementia support groups across the region, Hughes now serves as the facilitator of the Burdekin Dementia Support Group—a meeting point for dementia sufferers and carers alike to bond over shared experiences.

Meeting at the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre at 10am on the first Tuesday of every month, the group comes together to connect, converse, and learn, says Hughes.

“Caring for someone with dementia is a 24/7 concern. Even a short break is valuable,” she said.

“The group is meant to provide a comfortable space for people to relax. If they need to shed a tear, they can. Even just learning about the disease itself and its different aspects—‘this works for me, it might work for you’—helps tremendously.”

The group often welcomes guest speakers and draws on resources and educational programs created by Dementia Australia to provide carers with guidance and support.

But Hughes said that while the need for such support is growing, groups around the nation are struggling to attract attendees.

“Ours is a small group, but I don’t mind if only one person shows up. If I can help one person, that’s okay by me,” said Hughes.

She emphasised that the group is open to anyone, no matter where they are in their journey.

“Even if you’re grieving the loss of a loved one or your loved one has moved into permanent care, you’re still welcome,” she said.

“The stresses don’t end just because your role changes.”

The group also enjoys a morning tea each meeting. Anyone interested in learning more about the Burdekin Dementia Support Group is encouraged to contact the Burdekin Neighbourhood Centre on 07 4783 4243.

‍

The Burdekin Men’s Shed Mental Health Week Event proved a great success, connecting groups from Townsville, Rollingstone, and Vincent.

Men’s Shed members offering a helping hand at the AGnVet Rural
Annual BBQ.. Photos supplied.

‍

Since opening its doors in 2011, the shed on Young Street in Ayr has been a place for local men to gather, share skills, and look out for one another. A place where modest, unassuming conversation can mean the difference between isolation and connection.

The brainchild of a group of community members, health workers, and local government officials, the idea first took form at a public meeting in 2010. Men in the region wanted a space where they could tackle health issues together, away from the pressures of daily life. The response was overwhelming, and by June 2011, the Burdekin Men’s Shed Association was officially born.

From the beginning, the focus has always been on connection, says BMSA Secretary Charles Ford.

“I call it health without a pill,” he said.

“Men come along, and instead of regurgitating their illness at home, they come here… and by the time they’re talking to somebody else, it disappears.”

The ‘shed’ is home to five separate spaces, hosting workshops, mentoring sessions, and meet-and-greets several mornings a week, serving as a connection point where like-minded men of all ages can make new friends, share their skills, and pick up new ones while looking after their physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.

2025 was another big year for the shed. Members hosted an Inter-Shed visit with groups from Townsville, Rollingstone, and Vincent, sharing ideas and learning from each other. Others attended the North Queensland Zone QMSA President’s Conference in Townsville, connecting with fellow leaders and exploring new programs and funding opportunities.

Closer to home, members lent a hand wherever it was needed, repairing and repainting four Zonta Club bench seats to raise awareness of domestic violence, mentored local students, hosted workshops for Scouts, and cooked at the annual Christmas AGnVet Rural barbecue. Their Mental Health Week “Cuppa, Chat and Chew” event brought the community together to connect, discuss wellbeing, and celebrate Seniors Week.

The Men’s Shed is hoping for another fruitful year ahead, with plans to continue to strengthen the school mentoring program, welcome new and younger members, and continuing to improve facilities and activities.

The group is always welcoming new faces; men looking for a place to share a cuppa, learn new skills, and reconnect with community. With five sheds, regular meet-and-greet mornings, monthly luncheons, and guest speakers, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

Membership is open to men aged 18 and over, with a $10 joining fee and $50 annual membership. Application forms are available at the shed or through Secretary Charles Ford on 0417 401 303 or charlesford@iinet.net.au.

‍

By Chelsea Ravizza

Stanley Walter Simpson, fondly known as Stan, passed away on Thursday, 8 January 2026, leaving behind a lasting legacy of community service and a lifelong commitment to supporting the younger generation.

Mr Simpson grew up in Charters Towers and moved to the Burdekin Shire in 1944 where he met his late wife, June, and had three children, Stanley Jnr, Collette and the late Rachelle.

After completing his schooling at Ayr State High School, Mr Simpson worked alongside his father as a motor mechanic before joining a fertiliser company, where he was employed from 1969 to 1971. He later ventured into the automotive industry, spending many years in both new and used car sales before retiring in 2000. Retirement marked the beginning of a new chapter, with Mr Simpson hosting a news program on Sweet FM for six years while continuing to dedicate himself to a range of community and media endeavours, most notably his passion for mentorship.

Mr Simpson’s quest for knowledge and vested interest in the proper use of language saw him take to the stand for the first time at the Ayr Apex Club where he went on to win several speaking competitions. After retiring at the compulsory 40-year age limit with Life Membership honours, Mr Simpson joined the Home Hill Choral Society and wrote several Theatre Restaurant acts for the organisation.

In 1968, Mr Simpson joined Rostrum Club 18 (Ayr) and held the position of Club President for over a decade. Mr Simpson was elevated to Freeman of Australian Rostrum in 2009, and his dedication to coordinating Rostrum Voice of Youth (RVOY) within the Burdekin Shire ensured its survival for half a century.

Mr Simpson held a deep passion for seeing young people thrive, a commitment that became a defining part of his legacy through his coordination of RVOY workshops across the Burdekin Shire and the education of Burdekin Junior Water Festival Ambassadors.

Through this work, he championed the values at the heart of Rostrum; “for those who desire to improve themselves in the practice of effective speaking, and who hold that freedom of speech, loyalty to truth, clarity of thought, and a love of the English language are of utmost value to the community.”

Over the course of his public speaking career, Mr Simpson was awarded two Rostrum Australia Bronze Medallions for outstanding service beyond the duties undertaken and was runner up in the 2011 Arch Williams Memorial “Speaker of the Year”.

In 2011, Mr Simpson first delivered a tuition paper on public speaking to ASHS students, and with the cooperation of Mrs Linda Attard in 2014, a high number of students began to enrol in RVOY.

“There were many facets to Stan’s life… his family, his business, his passion for orchids, his musicality, just to name a few, yet he still found the time to inspire and motivate the Ayr High family, through another of his passions – public speaking,” said Mrs Attard.

“Through Stan’s belief about the importance of public speaking, a connection was forged with Ayr State High School that spanned over a decade.”

Mr Simpson’s passion and enthusiasm for seeing students succeed saw him become a beloved mentor to the youth of the shire.

“Stan would generously share his wisdom among our group of enthusiastic students who had nominated for the public speaking competition,” Mrs Attard recalled.

“He spoke to the students about what the adjudicators were looking for in a persuasive speech, the do’s and don’ts of public speaking, how to structure and deliver speeches and how to involve the audience.”

In addition to ASHS, Mr Simpson became heavily involved in several schools across the district in the years to follow, including Burdekin Christian College (BCC) and Burdekin Catholic High School (BCHS), where he voluntarily ran several youth developmental programs like RVOY, and Burdekin Toastmasters Club as well as conducting personalised public speaking and tutoring classes.

BCC Principal, Miss Debra Creed, recounted the tremendous impact Mr Simpson had on her students, recalling how affective he was in mentoring the younger generation to find a voice and stance on current world issues.

“The wonderful Stan Simpson had a massive impact for the better with our students – he would always appear with the brightest smile, and his support and efforts were never ending,” said Miss Creed.

“The staff and students at BCC are heartbroken to hear that Stan has passed, he was an icon of the Burdekin and will be greatly missed.”

In 2023, an inaugural award was introduced to ASHS’ Voices of the Future competition, known as the Stan Simpson Encouragement Award, which is presented to a student who has shown outstanding commitment, courage, and improvement in their speaking skills.

ASHS has committed to continue recognising Mr Simpson and his strong advocacy for public speaking within the school community as well as his unwavering support to generations of students.

“Stan has left a lasting legacy at Ayr High and his passion and dedication for public speaking will live on, not only through the award, but also for future generations of Ayr High students who participate in the Voices of the Future competition,” Mrs Attard said.

“The Ayr High family extend our deepest condolences to Stan’s family and friends.”

Mr Simpson led a life filled with generosity and passion for learning. Photo source: Stanley Jnr
Mr Simpson with ASHS RVOY students, Clara Hutton, Ryan Kastner, Mrs Linda Attard, Sarah McDonnell, and Lauren Raitelli. Photo source: Mrs Linda Attard
ASHS welcomes Mr Simpson to the school regularly for RVOY workshops and competitions. Photo source: Mrs Linda Attard
Mr Simpson also led RVOY workshops with BCC students. Photo source: Miss Debra Creed

‍

Burdekin Boars and Barras made its highly anticipated return to Clare on Friday, 6th February, with three days of fierce competition culminating in a well-attended final weigh-in on Sunday.

The biennial event, running since 2014, saw competitors battle it out over a range of hunting categories, with Sunday’s weigh-in drawing hundreds of spectators for an afternoon of music, activities and the final awards presentation.

Event coordinator Sarah Hollywood said the impressive turnout made this year’s iteration of the event was one to remember.

“We were very, very happy with all the community support,” said Hollywood.

“We are very fortunate to have such a supportive community in Clare, the wider Burdekin, and even outside of the Burdekin supporting the event.”

Read more on page 25

Tribute to Jaiden Booth Highlights Big Weekend

Continued from cover

This year, the Senior Heaviest Barra award was dedicated to the late Jaiden Booth, a long-time participant in the competition who is remembered for his passion, resilience and the joy he brought to fishing and the wider community.

Hollywood said the tribute was especially meaningful for the club and Jaiden’s family.

“It meant a lot, not just for his whole family, but for the community as well,” said Hollywood.

“Hopefully, it's something we can keep going, because Jaiden loved the event—he was a big part of it.”

The winner of the award, Nick Malone, graciously opted to donate the $1,000 prize money back into the club.

The Clare Sports & Recreation Club’s hallmark fundraiser, the event was vital in bringing the community together and supporting the club’s ongoing operations, said Hollywood.

“The Clare Club is majority volunteer-run. Whatever we make with the club goes straight back into the club,” she said.

“Without events like this, and without the volunteers that we are very fortunate to have, we wouldn't have a community club.”

Results:

Senior Categories: Heaviest Barra—$1,000 & $416 COSTA Sunglasses—Nick Malone (15.86kg)

Secret Weight Barra—$500—Brayden Jaques (6kg)

Heaviest Mangrove Jack—$250—Brodyn Cosalegno (2kg)

Biggest Catfish—$250—Ashley Hiscox

Junior Categories:
Heaviest Barra—$500—Dani Broadhead (11.64kg)

Secret Weight Barra—$250—Matt Laidlow (2.28kg)

Heaviest Mangrove Jack—$150—Keaton Jarvis (1.06kg)

Biggest Catfish—$150—Lexi Widderick (4.36kg)

Open Categories:
Heaviest Boar—$1000—Joshua Russell (101kg)

Heaviest Sow—$700—Cooper Lennox (88.7kg)

Heaviest Crab—$250—Zac Begg (1.43kg)

‍

Photo credit: Jacob Casha

Cover—The Senior Heaviest Barra award was dedicated to the late Jaiden Booth, a long-time participant in the competition. Winner of the award, Nick Malone, graciously opted to donate the $1,000 prize money back into the club. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
1—Junior Heaviest Barra winner Dani Broadhead
2—Junior Biggest Catfish winner Lexi Widderick
3—The biennial event, running since 2014, saw competitors battle it out over a range of hunting categories, with Sunday’s weigh-in drawing hundreds of spectators for an afternoon of music, activities and the final awards presentation
4—Attendees watch on in anticipation as the crab race kicks off
5—Crab race bidding was a huge hit!
6—Senior Secret Weight Barra winner Brayden Jaques
7—Junior Heaviest Mangrove Jack winner Keaton Jarvis
8—Senior Heaviest Mangrove Jack winner Brodyn Cosalegno
9—Junior Secret Weight Barra winner Matt Laidlow
10—Open Heaviest Boar winner Joshua Russell
11—Open Heaviest Sow winner Cooper Lennox
12—Senior Biggest Catfish winner Ashley Hiscox
13—Open Heaviest Crab winner Zac Begg
14 – Brody Ferguson placed a bid in the crab auction

‍

Up to 100 plants have been stolen or damaged from planter boxes in Ayr, Home Hill and Brandon in recent months, prompting Burdekin Shire Council to call on the community to help stop ongoing vandalism in CBD areas.

Council’s Parks team, which installs and maintains the planter boxes to beautify local shopping districts, has faced a growing number of incidents—in some cases occurring daily.

Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said the behaviour was disappointing and placed unnecessary pressure on staff and resources.

“Council’s Parks team takes great pride in maintaining our CBD planter boxes, and it is disheartening for staff to see their efforts repeatedly undone,” Mayor Dalle Cort said.

“Within the last two months, officers have estimated up to 100 plants have needed replacement. Replacing these plants and repairing the damage caused is not only costly for Council – it also takes time away from the many other important tasks carried out across the Shire.

“Residents looking to enhance their own gardens are encouraged to visit the Lower Burdekin Landcare Association, where a wide range of locally suited plants are available for purchase.”

Council is urging residents, business owners and visitors to stay alert and report suspicious activity around planter boxes and public landscaping.

Incidents can be reported to Burdekin Shire Council on (07) 4783 9800 or to Queensland Police via Policelink on 131 444.

‍

By Chelsea Ravizza

Whether you’re an ardent lover of gardening or are simply searching for a new hobby, members of the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. warmly invite and encourage locals to come along to experience the serenity of this passionate community group!

Since October of 1958, the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. has been growing and blossoming within the Burdekin Shire. Riding the wave of the highly successful Orchid and Foliage Show at the inaugural Burdekin Water Festival in April of 1958, 24 interested members of the community came together to host a meeting on 16 October to officially form the organisation and elect office bearers, and the society’s first President, Mr H. Williams.

Now, almost seven decades later, the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. exists as a tenacious community-based group focused on the cultivation, education and enjoyment of orchids and related plants.

“We welcome enthusiasts of all skill levels, from beginners to experts,” explained Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. Treasurer, Josephine Ganderton.

Collectively, the group works to provide a supportive environment for growing orchids within the local climate and gathers regularly to offer networking opportunities where attendees can share knowledge with one another on the diverse range of cosmopolitan plants.

In the past, the membership base of the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. has continued to shift, with a historic high of 80 members. Currently, the group regularly welcomes around 30 members to attend meetings and events held at Howie’s Hall at 118 – 120 MacMillan Street in Ayr.

Jo hopes 2026 will see an influx of new members, welcoming locals of any age to attend the group’s monthly meetings held at the hall on the first Sunday of every month from 2pm onwards, with the next meeting set for 1 March.

“We encourage anyone to come along, young or old, and if you love gardening – we have members who are experts on growing orchids in the Burdekin,” said Jo.

“We would love to see some young people attend the meetings!”

Members often bring along any orchids they have in flower for others to admire, providing attendees with the perfect opportunity to learn new tips and tricks from one another! Within the Burdekin Shire specifically, the warm climate has proven ideal for growing Cattleya orchids, which are often referred to as the queen orchid flowers, however, members often find gratification in growing the plants, and quickly develop a small collection of blossoming beauties.

“Once you start growing orchids, you need to have more than one,” added Jo.

“I love seeing all the beautiful flowers that members bring each month for display!”

To find out more information on the Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc. email Jo, jo.donaldson@bigpond.com or call President Conway Ganderton on 0425 325 040.

‍

Several members gathered to celebrate a successful year at the society’s 2025 Christmas Dinner. Photo source: Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc.

Monthly, members bring along orchids for display. Photo source: Ayr & District Orchid Society Inc.

‍

Hello,

One of the main reasons for running for Council was to help make the Burdekin a safer place. I am happy to say that with the help of some special staff at the Burdekin Shire Council and Police working together I have accomplished that goal.

The Council was successful in applying for funding with the Secure Communities Partnership Program. The funding provides security camera in the CBD areas of Ayr and Home Hill.

This will be a big step in assisting with crime prevention and help to keep the residents of the Burdekin Safe.

But there are things you can do at home to help reduce your own risk of break and entry.
Here are some points to assist you:

· Ensure doors are always locked with a key even when you are home.

· Ensure that all external doors, including your garage, are solid and fitted with
quality deadlocks.

· Always ensure car keys and house keys, together with mobile phones, handbags and wallets, are stored out of sight.

· Ensure trees and shrubs are trimmed to allow visibility to your property and your house number is clearly visible.

· Lock away items of value such as bikes, lawn mowers and garden implements such as ladders.

· Always keep your garage or shed door closed and locked with a key.

· Consider installing perimeter security lighting including sensor lights.

I will certainly support any further opportunities of funding that comes our way at the Burdekin Shire Council to further support security.

‍

Project work at a local health service will be given a clear pathway forward under the Crisafulli Government’s Hospital Rescue Plan with Member for Burdekin Dale Last welcoming the announcement.

Left as underfunded and with no clear plan under the former Labor Government, the Home Hill Hospital will now be the subject of a detailed business case ensuring development at the facility is fit for purpose and meets patient demand.

Mr Last said the commitment from the Crisafulli Government ensured patients in Home Hill continued to receive access to health care they deserve close to home.

“The Home Hill Hospital provides an invaluable service to its community, ensuring aged care, rehabilitation and renal dialysis patients are able to access the health care they need without travelling 100km down the highway,” Mr Last said.

“Over the years the community have backed the Home Hill Hospital and advocated to continue the services they need so I am proud to see our government backing that campaigning with the infrastructure to support it.”

“Having the proper planning will enable the Minister to consider proper budgeting, resourcing and most importantly, make sure the community can have confidence in the facilities that are constructed.”

Mr Last said the funding would be delivered under the Hospital Rescue Plan which saw Home Hill listed among 20 hospital and health service projects in rural and remote Queensland signed off by the Health Minister this week.

“Under the former Labor government, projects including Home Hill Hospital were announced without completed business cases, leaving costs wildly underestimated and communities without certainty,” Mr Last said.

“The Crisafulli Government is taking real action to ensure no matter where you are you can access health care when you need it most, whether it’s progressing the delivery of a CT scanner in Ayr or creating a clear plan for the future of the Home Hill Hospital.”

‍

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, has today welcomed the decision to re-form the Coalition between the Liberal and National parties, describing it as a vital step in providing Australia with the strong, credible opposition it deserves.
 
The re-formation of the Coalition follows a period of principled stand-taking by the National Party after the Albanese Government attempted to rush the complex Combatting Antisemitism, Hate and Extremism Bill 2026 through Parliament with only hours of scrutiny.
 
"I have always stood by my convictions, and my priority has never wavered: I am here to do what is best for the people of Dawson," Mr Willcox said.
 
"This wasn't an easy period, but it was a necessary one.”
 
Mr Willcox said that the deal to re-form the Coalition between the Nationals and Liberals wasn’t just a handshake, it’s a fundamental reset of how the Coalition functions.
 
“We have replaced unwritten conventions with a formal, written agreement that enshrines the primacy of the Joint Party Room. This means that from now on, the National Party’s voice is locked into the decision-making process at the earliest stage, ensuring that regional concerns are addressed before a final Coalition position is reached.
 
"By taking this stand, the National Party has secured a more transparent and accountable partnership, one that is built on codified rules and mutual respect for our separate party rooms.
 
“We have used this time to strengthen our internal processes, and we are returning to this partnership stronger, more united, and more determined than ever."
 
Mr Willcox noted that the Coalition is the most enduring and successful partnership in Australian political history, and that its reunion is a clear win for regional Australians who have been hit hardest by Labor’s economic failures.
 
"Every moment spent on internal party issues is a free pass to a weak and divisive Prime Minister," Mr Willcox said.
 
"While the media was focused on the split, I remained focused on the families, the growers, the workers, our retirees and the students who are struggling under the weight of rising inflation and a reckless 'renewables-only' energy agenda that is driving up the cost of everything.
 
"Australia deserves a government that bridges the gap between the city and the country, rather than one that throws away taxpayer money while families are forced to make heart-breaking cuts to their own budgets."
 
As part of the reformed Coalition arrangements, Mr Willcox will return to his role as Shadow Assistant Minister for Manufacturing and Sovereign Capability on 1 March 2026.
 
"I am eager to get back to work in this portfolio," he said.

"Our manufacturing sector is the backbone of our sovereign self-reliance, yet it is currently battling unrealistic climbs in energy costs and bureaucratic red tape.
 
“I will continue to be a fierce advocate for 'making things in Australia' and ensuring our industries have the affordable, reliable power they need to remain competitive on the world stage."
 
Mr Willcox remains unyielding in his commitment to the people of Dawson; he will always stand up for the common-sense values of his electorate, regardless of the political noise in the capital.
 
"Debate is a sign of a healthy democracy, and the Coalition is undoubtedly stronger together.
 
“We are squarely focused on the future, and we will spend every single day holding this failing Albanese Labor Government to account."
 
‍

Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, at Parliament House following the announcement that the Coalition has officially re-formed. Photo supplied

‍

The Burdekin Singers’ performance of We Will Rock You was absolutely sensational. If you haven’t had the opportunity to attend yet, there are still shows on this weekend and I can assure you, you will not be disappointed.

We have visitors travelling from surrounding areas, and they consistently tell me how fortunate we are to have such a beautiful venue and such dedicated people who work together to deliver productions of this calibre. Many of us spend considerable money attending large shows in capital cities, yet here in the Burdekin we are experiencing performances that stand proudly among them.

With the school year now underway, parents are settling back into routine. For some, the first day of pre-school brings a few tears, or perhaps tears of joy, as their little ones take their first big step. They grow up so quickly, and life certainly changes in the blink of an eye.

This week I heard a concerning statistic on the news: approximately 100 cars are stolen each month in Townsville. It was a surprising figure, and one that makes us reflect when we see abandoned vehicles on our own roads. Unfortunately, we have our own challenges with crime, and it is important that we do not become complacent.

Our community has always been built on small acts of care - looking out for one another, being vigilant with our property, and taking pride in the safety and wellbeing of our neighbours. It is this collective effort that sets the Burdekin apart.

Should you wish to reach out, don’t hesitate to contact me directly by phone at 0447 150 582, or feel free to send an email to mayor@burdekin.qld.gov.au.

‍

Saturday 14/2 (1-5pm) Group D - Ben Lawry PC, Kellie Lawry PC, Bella Lawry, Charlotte Lawry and Lisa Vivian

Sunday 15/2 (9am-5pm) Group E - John Moloney PC, Anne Moloney PC, Sophia Moloney, Tony Felisina, Tramayne Horan and Jarrod Rossato

‍